[password] nftpw4ps
[position] 10 16.06S 161 58.37E
[speed] 0kts
[heading] 84T
[status] We are heading out this afternoon for the southern tip of Guadalcanal. It is only a 70NM trip, but with light following wind, we expect a slow sail. Plan on arriving early AM tomorrow. We are sad to leave this anchorage. The people here are great. We had visitors last night around 7pm in their long boat. They just got back from Karikari and saw our lights on. It was the son of the Chief and his cousin. They talked for about an hour about the history of this island, the people and the current disputes with the government. They don't get a lot of boats here, and very few catamarans (we are the first this year). They work hard to make the boats feel welcome, and are very generous with their time and fresh coconuts. There is not any pressure to trade, there have been no 'ask ums' about free stuff, and in short just a great place. William asked to borrow 1 gallon of petrol two days ago. I said sure, as he wanted some extra just in case he ran out while fishing. I am always suspect about 'borrowing' fuel. Well, the good news, is William came back with the fuel he purchased in Karikari, and was very apologetic it took him 24hrs to get me the fuel 'back'. He was very nice, and told me he didn't want me to think he was dishonest...that is why he worried about it taking 24hrs for him to return. These are the kind of people we have met in the Solomons, and so far the experience has been excellent over the past 6 weeks.
[weather] 5k-10 nts SE, mostly cloudy, light drizzle, 1006 baro

[END]